Tara Van - “Things I Wanna Say”
Photo credit: Yolanda Van Der Kolk-Brown
Toronto-based singer-songwriter Tara Van has just released the enveloping chamber pop ballad, “Things I Wanna Say.”
“Things I Wanna Say” is a richly layered and emotionally resonant track with a vibe that is reminiscent to “I Just Wasn’t Made for These Times” by The Beach Boys. Tara Van, however, does deliver something different; the track is not Phil Spector strung out on acid, but rather a more stripped-back production, whilst maintaining the harmonic complexity.
Over the gentle, swaying bossa nova-esque groove, textures are painted in a way that feels almost suspended and dreamlike. Whether it is the breezy acoustic guitar, gently arpeggiating electric, airy synth pads, or horn layers, you cannot help but become immersed in the meticulously crafted, lush, and ethereal atmosphere.
Throughout “Things I Wanna Say,” the vocal of Tara Van is a pleasing, reflective focal point. With gentle phrasing, gliding melodies, and elegant smoothness, the delivery beautifully comes to life as the intricate harmonies begin to overlap like a celestial chorus.
On the track, Tara Van adds: “A little under two years ago, I was seeing someone and the words “love you” slipped out of my mouth at the rock-climbing gym when I was saying goodbye. Both of our eyes kinda bulged and I just quickly said “bye” and proceeded to freak out. I went home and wrote this song. It is a tough moment in a relationship when you are at the beginning of things and trying to understand your own feelings. Is it infatuation? Is it love? Is it friendship? Is it just comfort?”